^1. Now about the collection for God's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do.

^2. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.

^3. Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem.

^4. If it seems advisable for me to go also, they will accompany me.

^5. After I go through Macedonia, I will come to you--for I will be going through Macedonia.

^6. Perhaps I will stay with you awhile, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go.

^7. I do not want to see you now and make only a passing visit; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits.

^8. But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost,

^9. because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.

^10. If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am.

^11. No one, then, should refuse to accept him. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.

^12. Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity.

^13. Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

^14. Do everything in love.

^15. You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. I urge you, brothers,

^16. to submit to such as these and to everyone who joins in the work, and labors at it.

^17. I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.

^18. For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.

^19. The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla [1] greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house.

^20. All the brothers here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

^21. I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand.

^22. If anyone does not love the Lord--a curse be on him. Come, O Lord [2] !

^23. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.

^24. My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen. [3]